Market Hill in Maldon has been designated as a Clean Air Route. The non-charging Route is a voluntary scheme which encourages drivers to use the A414 bypass to access the town centre.

Maldon District Council are encouraging the use of the A414 bypass instead of accessing the town centre from the west and south instead of using Market Hill.

The intention is to reduce emissions on Market Hill to improve air quality.

There will be no penalties issued to drivers who use Market Hill, but it is hoped people will choose to support the Clean Air Route to help everyone living, working and walking on Market Hill to breathe cleaner air.

By avoiding queuing on Market Hill it will also help to save on fuel costs.

Councillor Richard Siddall, Leader of Maldon District Council said: “Traffic emissions are the most significant source of air pollution in Maldon and Market Hill has higher levels of nitrogen dioxide than national air quality levels.

“It is particularly affected because of the gradient of the hill and close proximity of residential properties which reduce the dispersion of exhaust fumes.

“That’s why we have set up this Clean Air Route and we hope vehicle drivers will join us in re-routing their journeys away from Market Hill in order to improve the air for everyone in our town centre."

Last month, to mark Clean Air Day on June 20, eco club pupils from All Saints Primary School in Maldon learnt about how the new Clean Air Route will contribute towards reducing emissions and the impact of air pollution on their growing lungs.

The Clean Air Route is part of a wider programme of measures we're taking to encourage active travel and improve air quality on Market Hill.

These include enforcement of the existing HGV weight restrictions, calling for the improvement of the local bus fleet, and promoting journeys by foot or bicycle.